BioWare Lays Off Dragon Age Staff to Focus on Mass Effect

Key Dragon Age developers depart BioWare following studio restructuring for Mass Effect 5.

On January 29th, IGN reported that BioWare had reassigned numerous developers to other EA projects, shifting its complete focus to Mass Effect 5. General manager Gary McKay explained the restructuring as a strategic realignment during a period between major development cycles. While many developers were successfully placed within other EA teams, a smaller number of Dragon Age team members faced termination, with the option to apply for other internal roles.

The announcement prompted several high-profile BioWare departures. Editor Karin West-Weekes, narrative designer and lead writer on Dragon Age: The Veilguard Trick Weekes, and editor Ryan Cormier publicly announced their job searches. Producer Jen Cheverie and senior systems designer Michelle Flamm also confirmed their exits. These departures follow 2023 layoffs and the recent departure of Dragon Age: The Veilguard director Corinne Busche.

EA's response to inquiries regarding the number of affected individuals remained vague, stating that the studio is appropriately staffed for the current phase of Mass Effect 5 development.

Dragon Age: The Veilguard, the first new entry in the series in a decade, concluded its development last week with what appeared to be its final major update. The game's launch was notably underwhelming, failing to meet sales expectations by 50%, achieving only 1.5 million players against a projected 3 million. BioWare's decision to forgo post-launch DLC further disappointed fans. The game's development had already been plagued by challenges, including previous layoffs and the loss of several key personnel.

Meanwhile, EA confirmed that a veteran team, including Mike Gamble, Preston Watamaniuk, Derek Watts, and Parrish Ley, is leading the development of the next Mass Effect game.